Boost for scholarship

The scholarship is the first of its kind and is designed to help train a talented young player for a year.

The total donation is likely to be around £5,000 but could go much higher, which will add to the level and quality of training delivered by the scholarship.

Chief Executive of the Saga Group Andrew Goodsell said: " Paul Hunter had an amazing record at the Masters and his performances at Wembley will never be forgotten.

"In his memory, we feel it is appropriate to make a donation to this new scholarship scheme. Hopefully one day we will see a graduate of the scheme taking part in the Saga Insurance Masters."

Hunter, Masters champion in 2001, 2002 and 2004, died at the age of 27 last October after a battle against cancer.

This year's tournament runs starts on Sunday at the Wembley Arena.